The rapidly clearing weather encouraged a good size group of 10 hikers to the trail head off I-90's Exit 45, rescuing Larry from his stranded car on the way. Just as we got underway, another group of 10 arrived from Eastgate. We left for the trail in two groups with Larry in the lead.

Putrid Pete's Peak is one of several sub-peaks at the center of "Bannana Ridge", which runs in an arc West from Mt. Defiance. The trail moves from road to a wide groomed trail and then to a beaten path in switchbacks through the forest, finally almost disapearing as it climbs the steep ridge between two talus fields.

Bugs were present, but not in the numbers seen at this time in other years. The last few hundred feet ran through rocky meadows which seemed impatient to sprout their flowers. At the summit, a rock outcropping perched above spider lake, we gathered for snacks and a picture. Clear weather provided views of Stuart, Glacier peak, Rainier and the entire I-90 corridor.

On the way down we spread out to minimize the chance of rock fall injury. Moosefish was smart enough to bring a helmet. After gathering together again we donned the headlamps and proceeded out, guided by a glowing half moon which hung above Mclellan Butte.

Sounds like it was a great hike! I'm so glad the weather broke good for you in the afternoon!

Unfortunately, that good weather also meant I had to keep a promise to plant our very late garden and mow our very tall grass, both of which were delinquent due to the unrelenting rain of late. I can't make next week, either, due to travel plans.

I had a great time on Putrid Pete's Peak. It was my first TNAB hike and a very enjoyable experience for both Kona and myself. I was encouraged to be walking on dirt and rock for 98% of this scramble! (instead of snow). Maybe summer is coming after all. I hope to be able to join the group again soon.

As a P^3 newbie, it reminded me of the Mailbox of the mid-90s, except for the loose talus fields and the sing-song of ROCK. This is a great group, though, and the fields were skillfully navigated without issues. Well, except for when I was showing Alti-Dude the shortcut. That left a mark .

It was great to meet the new TNABers, say hi to regulars, although I didn't know puzzlr was in the first group. A big shout out to Magnum for being the cool-headed leader and to Mountain High for the swank ride to the trailhead (next time we get to watch Into The Void!).

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